Using Open Source to Redefine the Public Library

by Ben Pearson

September 18th, 2014

Takoma Park Maryland Library uses Linux for 28 public stations running at the library. The library chose provider Userful, a company that specializes in multi-lingual Linux environments using Fedora. The library has spent considerable effort making the Linux experience feel similar to other traditional desktop environments, and users often aren’t even aware they are using Linux. Phil Shapiro, the library’s public geek, wants to use open source ideas to evolve our usage of public libraries and to rethink the role they play in our society.